Power came and went for between 100 and 300 customers overnight in the Orion network area in Christchurch and central Canterbury. Most power outages were caused by branches from snow damaged trees falling into power lines. Most of the affected customers are in the rural area west of Christchurch, including in parts of Castle Hill and Kimberley.

"We know how difficult it is to be without power in these conditions, and we have teams working to restore power and we're working as quickly as we can to get power back to everyone," says Orion Chief Executive Rob Jamieson.

"Access difficulties are hampering efforts, especially in the Castle Hill area. In other places tree branches from snow damage trees falling into lines has been significant, which means repairs can take a long time."

Please stay clear of fallen power lines and treat them as live at all times. To report lines down call Orion on 03 363 9898.